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It was a tight game on Saturday when South Africa tried to beat the best rugby team in the world.
But no such honour was achieved – yet, at least. Siya Kolisi isn’t too worried as he reckons this loss is simply adding fuel to their fire to eventually win, or at least make it big in the next competition knockout.
Ireland’s 13-8 win over South Africa in their pool B clash at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis sent the Springboks from second to third (behind France) in the World Rugby rankings, determining the best international team.
Thankfully, per The Citizen, the Springbok captain is keeping spirits high by saying it will just prepare them better for the future:
“This whole pool is exactly what we need going forward. To test ourselves against the number one team in the world is great for us and just shows what they are capable of, “ said Kolisi after the match.
“Obviously we will now go back (to the drawing board). We have Tonga next weekend which is really important.”
Good old sport.
The Boks did everything to win, missing four shots at goal amounting to 11 points – something that was crucial in a five-point loss. They also did well to create numerous other opportunities despite being unable to convert.
During their final pool match against Tonga this coming weekend, they have another chance to make it into the competition knockouts if they claim the big win.
Naturally, the Boks are disappointed by the loss, but Kolisi is still lekker proud of the effort of his charges, admitting that Ireland played a strong game:
“We would have loved to win but it was a great and intense game. Congrats to them, they played really well. They were able to hold the pressure and got their try in the first half which was important,” said Kolisi.
“I am proud of the way we played. I think we left few opportunities out there, while they also did. But it was a great test for us as a group.”
Ireland’s Bundee Aki knew that the team had to come in strong to give the Boks some pressure, admitting that “South Africa are an outstanding team, they aren’t world champions for no reason. They gave it to us from the beginning to end.”
That’s sommer life, hey; you win some, you lose some.
[source:citizen]
